Fiona Durban

Fiona has over 30 years’ experience of working with groups and individuals in the field of healing, bodywork and personal development. She has taught Tai Chi, Qigong and meditation professionally since 1988 and has been our resident teacher of Tai Chi / Chi Kung since 2013.

Facebook: phoenixtaichi.chikungbodymind

The body is a self regulating system, through which energy or life force flows freely in and out. When this flow becomes blocked or unbalanced, illness or disease can occur.

CHI KUNG ( QIGONG ) has been used in the Orient for centuries to improve and maintain physical, emotional and mental wellbeing. Alongside Acupuncture and Acupressure, Chi Kung is one of the main branches of traditional Chinese medicine. Regular practice helps balance both the immune and cardio-vascular systems - and by massaging the internal organs, aids digestion and helps the body to rid itself of toxins. The moving exercises themselves help to develop stamina and to keep the joints flexible. Chi Kung has proven itself to be beneficial in the treatment of several ailments, including osteoporosis, arthritis, blood pressure, respiratory disease, anxiety and depression; the list goes on and on.

TAI CHI describes a way of living that is in harmony with the world around us and with our own body; some might call it a spiritual discipline or way of life. It has many parts to it, one of them being the Tai Chi Ch'uan, or Tai Chi boxing, the long, connected movements that most people associate with Tai Chi. These choreographed movements, known as 'forms' can take a long time to learn; however, the principles of these movements are much easier to learn and we will use them throughout the week, alongside Chi Kung and various partner and group exercises, to deepen the connection between our body and mind, to develop good posture, co-ordination, balance, mental focus and a general sense of wellbeing.

There will be exercises on the floor, sitting in chairs, standing and walking. We will work outside for some of the time, to make the most of nature.

Suitable for anyone, from complete novice to those who want to deepen their understanding of their own Tai Chi or Chi Kung practise, and especially for those who want to take control of their own healing process, in order to become or to maintain being grounded, positive, present and more mindful in each moment. Please note that a lot of the exercises are practised standing up.

You will learn postures, movements and some basic massage and healing techniques to take home with you. There will also be an optional DVD showing some variations of sequences that you can watch and follow when the mood takes you. Please do contact me by e mail if you have any queries about the course. phoenixtaichi@outlook.com